The federal government’s procurement processes have come under scrutiny. As an advocacy group, NEFGAD has written to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and Minister of Works, David Umahi, seeking clarification on the re-award of the Abuja-Kaduna Highway contract.
In a letter dated January 21, 2025, and seen by THE WHISTLER, NEFGAD is questioning the eligibility of Messr Infoquest Nigeria Limited, the company announced by Minister Umahi as the new contractor for the project. The group is requesting evidence of the company’s regulatory qualifications, experience, and competence to handle the project.
NEFGAD’s Country Head of Office, Mr. Akingunola Omoniyi, stated that the organization is seeking a due process report and a BPP Certificate of No Objection for the contract.
“In the spirit of natural justice, we write on the strength of the relevant sections of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, to humbly request for the Certified True Copies (CTC) of the following information as they relate to the contract for the Abuja Kaduna Highway Contract awarded to Mesar Infoquest Nigeria Limited,” he stated.
NEFGAD also stated in a release that the Abuja-Kaduna Highway project is of significant national importance, with a long history of process mismanagement and underlying tendencies that are inimical to the interests of Nigerians and millions of road users, and that the organisation will not hesitate to take legal action if their requests are not met.
“Take notice that, in the event of any delay or refusal to disclose this information within 7 days from the date of your receipt of this request, we shall be compelled to take lawful and necessary steps to compel you to disclose the information in accordance with section 20 and other relevant provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011,” the letter read.
This development comes on the heels of the contract being withdrawn from Messr. Julius Berger due to alleged irregularities. The group is currently in court challenging the BPP’s practices, particularly the non-inauguration of the National Council on Public Procurement and the indiscriminate issuance of Certificates of No Objection.
